Introduction to Ciqikou Ancient Town

I. Natural Landscapes

Ciqikou Ancient Town is nestled between mountains and rivers, offering unique natural scenery:

• Jialing Riverside Views: The town lies along the broad, shimmering Jialing River, with distant views of lush green mountains, creating a serene harmony of water and hills.
• Ancient Trees and Stone Alleys: Century-old banyan trees line the streets, their dense foliage contrasting with the blue-stone pavements. In summer, they provide cool shade, while autumn leaves blanket the paths in gold.
• Mountainous Terrain: The town’s undulating terrain offers panoramic views of the Jialing River from elevated spots, where breezes carry the freshness of the water.

II. History and Culture

Ciqikou embodies Chongqing’s millennia-old heritage:

• Origins of Porcelain Trade: Named after its prosperous porcelain industry during the Ming and Qing dynasties, it was once a key ceramic trading hub in the Bayu region.
• Port Culture: As a bustling river port, it witnessed thriving commerce, described in the saying, “A thousand hands bow by day, ten thousand lamps glow by night.”
• Wartime Legacy: During the Anti-Japanese War, scholars and artists sought refuge here, enriching the town’s cultural fabric. Historical sites from this era remain preserved.

III. Architectural Style

A blend of eastern Sichuan folk and mountain-inspired design:

• Ming-Qing Architecture: Traditional wooden houses with gray tiles, upturned eaves, and carved windows reflect authentic eastern Sichuan style.
• Stilted Houses and Courtyards: Stilted buildings cling to hillsides, while courtyard homes with skylights showcase the ingenuity of mountain architecture.
• Temples and Archways: The Ming-era Baolun Temple (originally Baiyan Temple) houses ancient bells, and the Longyin Town archway stands as a testament to history.

IV. Seasonal Changes

Each season paints the town with distinct charm:

• Spring: Fresh greenery along the river, budding banyan trees, and misty drizzle create an ink-wash painting ambiance.
• Summer: The cool Jialing River and shaded alleys offer respite from heat, while evening breezes invite leisurely strolls.
• Autumn: Crisp skies, red leaves against gray tiles, and mild weather make it ideal for photography.
• Winter: Mist shrouds the river, lanterns adorn old streets, and tea brewed by a warm stove embodies cozy winter traditions.

V. Cultural Activities

• Traditional Markets: Bustling shops sell Chongqing snacks like Chen Mahua (twisted dough), glutinous rice cakes, and Mao Xue Wang (spicy blood curd stew).
• Teahouse Culture: Sip tea from covered bowls in old teahouses, listen to Sichuan opera, or join locals in lively storytelling (“bai longmen zhen”).
• Festivals: Lunar New Year temple fairs, dragon boat races, and Mid-Autumn celebrations feature dragon dances, folk performances, and intangible cultural heritage displays.

VI. Unique Experiences

• Pottery Workshops: Craft your own ceramics in artisan studios, connecting with the town’s porcelain legacy.
• Night Exploration: Lantern-lit stone paths, riverside bars, and live folk music create a bohemian atmosphere after dark.
• Hidden Gems: Wander narrow alleys to discover secluded teahouses, indie bookshops, or art studios, embracing the town’s philosophy of “slow living.”

Ciqikou Ancient Town is not just a scenic spot but a living “museum of mountain-city culture,” where nature and humanity intertwine, and history coexists with modernity. It invites visitors to slow down and savor the timeless charm of Bayu traditions.